Workforce News

After decades of service in the U.S. Army, Nonya Stewart was ready for a new mission—one that would allow her to carry her commitment to service into civilian life. She found just that next chapter at Niagara Bottling, a leading beverage manufacturer proud to support veterans as they transition into new and meaningful careers in the industry. Her story demonstrates the impact of thoughtful partnerships like the one between the Manufacturing Institute’s Heroes MAKE America (HMA) initiative and Niagara Cares, the charitable division of Niagara Bottling, when we work collaboratively to support veterans.  

The background: Originally from Albany, Georgia, Stewart joined the Army seeking structure, purpose and a new direction in life.  

• What started as a leap of faith in her 20s turned into a 24-year career that took her across the world, including assignments in South Korea, Germany and Italy. During her service, she served as a logistician and rose through the ranks to Sergeant Major, the highest enlisted rank in the Army. 

• “The Army taught me the true meaning of servant leadership and resilience,” said Stewart. “I learned that not everything will go as planned, but effective leaders adapt, stay composed, and guide their teams through challenges with purpose and flexibility.” 

Coming full circle: When it came time to transition to a civilian career, manufacturing felt like a natural fit, familiar, hands-on, and aligned with her passion for logistics 

• “I developed a passion for logistics work during my time in the military, where I learned that nothing operates smoothly without strong logistical support,” she said. “With 24 years of experience, I knew I had valuable skills to offer as I transitioned into the civilian world.” 

A chance encounter: Stewart’s journey to Niagara Bottling began when she attended the HMA’s Military to Manufacturing Career Fair at Fort Hood in Texas.  

• She only learned about the event the day before but attended with an open mind. Niagara Bottling stood out to her immediately after researching local manufacturers nearly a year earlier and remembered the company’s growth and advanced manufacturing systems. 

• She introduced herself at the Niagara booth, shared her resume, and struck up an enthusiastic conversation with the team. Shortly after, she received an offer. 

• Since 2023, Niagara Cares has proudly partnered with HMA to help create opportunities like this and to support transitioning service members nationwide.  

A transition in action: Today, Stewart serves as a warehouse supervisor, leading a small team and ensuring accurate, safe movement of product. Her leadership style, which is rooted in calm and positive encouragement, is a continuation of her military training.  

• “As a high-tempo company, we’re constantly moving and managing a team of three can certainly present its challenges,” said Stewart. “However, motivating my team and reinforcing the mindset that ‘we’ve got this’ are principles I carried over from my military career. Those experiences have shaped my leadership style and allow me to lead with positivity and confidence.” 

A word of advice: Stewart encourages other service members to stay proactive when transitioning to civilian careers—and to seize opportunities like the HMA’s career fairs. 

• “When I first started attending job fairs, I’ll be honest, I used to just stand there, feel intimidated and eventually walk out,” said Stewart. “But I realized I had to change my mindset. When you’re speaking with different companies, preparation is everything. Know your resume, be confident in your experience and make sure they can see your potential in that one conversation” 

The MI says: “We are proud to support service members like Nonya as they transition from military service to successful civilian careers in manufacturing,” said MI President and Executive Director Carolyn Lee. “Through Heroes MAKE America’s training and career fairs, we connect employers with mission-driven talent who are valued for their skills and leadership.” 

“Our partnership with the Manufacturing Institute and the Heroes MAKE America initiative reflects Niagara’s deep commitment to those who have served,” said Ann Chock, Head of Niagara Cares. “We’re grateful for the chance to support veterans as they transition into new careers and hope to play a small role in their continued success.”  

Get involved: Heroes MAKE America is proud to partner with companies and organizations with Niagara Cares to support America’s military community and help fill critical manufacturing workforce needs. HMA connects skilled service members and veterans directly with employers who are committed to hiring and advancing those who have served. Together, we’re building a stronger manufacturing workforce for the future.  

• Are you an employer looking to tap into the veteran talent pool? Learn more.